Monaco (/ˈmɒnəkoʊ/)

Monaco is well known that most visitors do not realize that the entire principality is approximately 2/3 the size of New York City's Central Park. Packed into a narrow expanse of coastal plain that has  enlarged slightly by landfill and a new sea wall, the city rapidly climbs upwards from the shore to the surrounding hills.

This delightful town is nested along a curve of a very scenic shoreline and the town is imbued with an interesting history, as it has been ruled by the Grimaldi family for over 700 years.

The Grimaldi monarchy has provided the country with an attractive, storybook-like cachet including the romance and storybook marriage between Prince Rainier III and the American film star Grace Kelly.  Although both are now dead, their children have managed to keep many eyes focused on Monaco. 

  

Monaco Harbor

At the foot of the cliff, lies the busy, almost square-shaped, harbor which was constructed between 1901 and 1926. Large numbers of yachts, including from time to time the Prince's private vessel, are to be seen here. On the western side of the harbor, near the Boulevard Albert I, is the modern Stade Nautique Rainier III, a stadium for water sports. 

 Monte-Carlo Rally

The Monte-Carlo Rally is the most famous road rally in the world. Competitors can choose the location from several European cities to commence their rally, then they meet at a common point to complete the remainder of the journey, primarily through France to Monte Carlo. It's a winter event so the vagaries of the Alpine winter weather add to the challenge. 

 Salle Garnier, Opéra de Monte-Carlo

Charles Garnier is best known for the opera house that bears his name in Paris but he also designed the magnificent and extravagantly, decorated Salle Garnier in Monte Carlo which opened in 1879. As it seats only 524, it is often difficult to get tickets. The season is also a short one, running from mid-January to the end of March. Tickets go on sale in early January and can be ordered by writing to: Service Location, Opera de Monte-Carlo, B.P. 139, Monte-Carlo 98007, Monaco.

Address: Service Location, Opera de Monte-Carlo, Box 139, Monte-Carlo, Monaco 98007, Monaco
http://www.opera.mc

Tips: The box office is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-12:30 p.m. and from 2-5pm There is a strict dress code for attending a performance -- jacket and tie for men and appropriate evening wear for women.

Museum of the Chapel of the Visitation

Housed in a baroque style chapel dating from the 7th century, is home to part of the remarkable collection of sacred works of art belonging to Mrs. Piasecka Johnson.

Show Details

Hours:

10am-4pm; Closed: Mon

 

 

 Moneghetti

Seemingly endless steps and roads with hairpin bends climb up the eastern slope of the Tête de Chien to the Moyenne Corniche. These roads give access to the district of Moneghetti in the west of the principality, a part of the town which is built on terraces with fine villas and gardens.

India (/ˈɪndiə/)

India officially the Republic of India is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the south-west, and the Bay of Bengal on the south-east, it shares land borders with Pakistan to the west; China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the north-east; and Burma and Bangladesh to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka and the Maldives; in addition, India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Thailand and Indonesia.

Agra’s Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra.

Completed in 1653, the T?j Mahal was built by the Mughal king Sh?h Jah?n as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumt?z Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) of hard labour and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set amidst landscaped gardens.

Jaipur / Udaipur

Jaipur is also popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur is a very famous tourist and education destination in India.Lots of people flock to Jaipur to view the various forts and monuments in Jaipur which reflect its glorious past. Tourism is a significant part of Jaipur’s economy. Some of the world’s best hotels are located here.

Goa

Goa is Famous for its pristine beaches, infact 90% of all the tourism in Goa happens only for its beautiful beaches in Coastal Areas. Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad (mainly Europe) come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate. In the summertime (which, in Goa, is the rainy season), tourists from across India come to spend the holidays.In 2008 there were more than three million tourists reported to have visited Goa, more than half million of whom were from Foreign visitors. Infact, many foreigners have made Goa as there home for its laid-back and relaxed lifestyle !

 Kashmir

Kashmir was once called Heaven on Earth, and once of the most beautiful places in the world. However, in last couple of decades, terrorism has faded its charm – A place home to Himalayan Ranges.The State of Jammu & Kashmir has main three geographical regions known as “The Lesser Himalayas” or the “Jhelum Valley” (Kashmir), “The Inner Himalayas” or “The Indus Valley” (Ladakh & Frontier areas) also called “Trans-Himalayas”, and “The Outer-Himalayas” or “The Southern mountain range” (Jammu). The area of Jammu & Kashmir is 2, 22,236 square kilometers.

 Kanyakumari

Though there are several places of tourist-interest in the town and district, Kanyakumari is especially popular in India for its spectacular and unique sunrise and sunset. The confluence of three ocean bodies – the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea – makes the sunrise and sunset even more special. On balmy, full-moon evenings, one can also see the moon-rise and sunset at the same time – on either side of the horizon.

Finland (/ˈfɪnlənd/)

Finland officially the Republic of Finland is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.

Around 5.4 million people reside in Finland, with the majority concentrated in the southern region. It is the eighth largest country in Europe in terms of area and the most sparsely populated country in the European Union. Finland is a parliamentary republic with a central government based in Helsinki and local governments in 336 municipalities and a federacy with Åland. About one million residents live in the Greater Helsinki area, which consists of Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen and Vantaa, and a third of the country's GDP is produced there. Other larger cities include Tampere, Turku, Oulu, Jyväskylä, Lahti and Kuopio.

Old Rauma

Old Rauma recently made UNESCO’s World Heritage List on its 550th anniversary. It boasts one of the oldest harbours in Finland as well as an impressive array of ancient vernacular architecture. Fine craftsmen such as lace makers, goldsmiths and furniture makers actively use many of these preserved buildings. Old Rauma also contains one of the narrowest streets in Finland. The 15th century Franciscan Holy Cross Church and the Rauma Museum, located in the town hall, are also well worth a look. 

 The Island Fortress of Suomenlinna

The 18th century Fortress of Suomenlinna is a must-see on any trip to Finland. It is located on an island at the entrance to Helsinki harbour and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Treasure since 1991. The unique fortress is a fine example of European military architecture. Besides being a being a historical site and tourist attraction, Suomenlinna is also a well-loved recreation area for Helsinki citizens. With 900 permanent inhabitants, Suomenlinna remains a lively island with an impressive array of museums, galleries, restaurants and cafes to keep you occupied!

 St. Olaf's Castle, Olavinlinna

Balanced on the edge of a tiny green island in a lake, this beautiful 500-year-old castle resembles something from a fairytale. Founded in 1475, it is comprised of the main castle as well as three towers and a bailey with a surrounding wall reinforced by towers. It is among Finland's most well-known tourist attractions. There is a very interesting orthodox museum in the castle grounds displaying Russian Orthodox artifacts from Finland and Russia.

The King's Road

The King's Road is the historical route between the old northern capitals of Oslo, Stockholm, Turku, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg. Dating back to the 13th century, the ancient road winds along the Finnish southern coastline past castles, manor houses and frame cottages. Originally, the King's Road served as an important connection between the powerful kingdoms of Sweden and Russia. Today, it is a remarkable testament to history. Taverns and inns that offered refuge to the weary traveler are still intact. Old stone churches and iron mills also remain.

 Lapland

Land of the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights, the Finnish province of Lapland is one of the world’s most wild and unspoiled regions, sparsely populated with truly friendly and welcoming people. Blessed with wide open fells and hills, uninhabited forests, magnificent lakes as clear as crystal, quietly babbling brooks and foaming rapids, this region offers the tourist the holiday of a lifetime. Lapland is also the home of Santa Claus. Pay a visit to Santapark – Santa’s theme park – and meet with Santa himself!

Egypt (/ˈiːdʒɪpt/ )

Egypt is located in North Africa and is among the top most tourist destinations of the world. No other country comes even closer to Egypt when it comes to the number of magnificent monuments, activities and historical attractions. More than ninety percent of all Egyptian attractions are lined up along the river Nile. Many places can therefore visited by taking a cruise in the Nile river (besides road and air travel). Since it is a popular tourist destination Egypt offers extensive facilities for tourists.

 PYRAMIDS: There are more than 80 pyramids in Egypt which were built mostly between 2600 BC and 1500 BC and all are situated close to the Nile river. After the ruler died (or other prominent royal figures like queens), their bodies were wrapped and preserved as a mummy, and placed in the Pyramid. The most popular pyramids are the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx: An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 workers built the Pyramids at Giza over 80 years. Giza also has the largest pyramid also known as "Great Pyramid" which rises an amazing 481 feet.

 CAIRO: It is the capital of Egypt. Popular attractions of Cairo include:

a) Khan al-Khalili market: Khan al-Khalili is one of the largest markets in the world which attracts both local's and international tourists. This is a great place to but exotic perfume bottles, Arabic clothing and other souvenirs.

b) Egyptian Museum of Antiquities: It have over hundred thousand artifacts in 107 halls. The most popular attraction is the Tutankhamun Gallery.

c) Other attractions are Pyramids of Giza (mentioned above) and Old Cairo.

 ABU SIMBEL: It was carved out of sandstone cliffs high above the River Nile. The most famous attraction are the four colossal 20m-high statues of Ramses II guarding the entrance. When the waters of Lake Nasser to rise, UNESCO relocated them to a high ground between 1964 and 1968.

 SHARM EL SHEIKH: Best places to see are - Sinai Mountain, Na'ama Bay,Tiran Island, Terrazzina Beach and White Lagoon.

Other attractions of Egypt include the White Desert, Hurghada and Felucca on the Nile.

SAFETY INFORMATION: There were some terrorist bombings reported in Egypt in last few years. Check travel.state.gov for additional information. Overall the crime rate in Egypt is low. Visitors should consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling. Egypt has high road fatalities rate so you should prefer not to drive yourself unless you feel comfortable.

VALLEY OF THE KINGS: The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank of the River Nile in Thebes. There are 62 tombs in the valley. It has two components - the East Valley and the West Valley. It is the East Valley which most tourists visit and in which most of the tombs of the New Kingdom Pharaohs can be found.

Ecuador (/ˈɛkwədɔr/)

 Ecuador officially the Republic of Ecuador is a representative democratic republic in South America, bordered by Colombia on the north, Peru on the east and south, and by the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is one of only two countries in South America, along with Chile, that do not have a border with Brazil. The country also includes the Galápagos Islands in the Pacific, about 1,000 kilometers (620 mi) west of the mainland.

Quito

The Plaza de la Independencia in the middle of the Andes is a real jewel of a place. The famous battle between the Spanish and the Indians were fought here. Surrounded by four incredible buildings comprising of the Government Palace, the Municipal Palace, the Cathedral and the Archbishop's Palace, is a must-visit place in Ecuador. 

 El Sagrario, located next to the Cathedral, was originally constructed for the cult of the Holy Sacrament. This highly ornamented, Baroque style structure is a famous tourist place of Ecuador.

With over 8,670 acres San Francisco Church and Plaza is the oldest Church in Quito, built between 1536-1580. Renowned for its architectural styles from Baroque on the interior to a Moorish ornamented ceiling, tourists must not miss this place while on a trip to Ecuador. 

Otavalo

Two hours north of Quito on the Panamerican highway the Otavalo area is a small town of about 50,000 inhabitants and home to the famous Otavalo Indians. One of the popular places to visit in Ecuador, the many lakes in the province provides lovely boat cruises in the midst of its unspoiled natural settings.

Banos

One of the popular places to visit in Ecuador, tourists flock here for the famous hot springs, the scenery and the accessibility to the jungle via Puyo and Misahuallí. Tungurahua known as ‘The Black Giant', the largest volcano in Ecuador also pulls spectators and adventurers in large number. Brave hearts can take a climb on this mountain, which is though a volcanic hill but is still quite an easy climb.

 Galapagos Islands

Known as the living museum of evolutionary changes, this Archipelago with its free and fearless animals is very different from any others found elsewhere in the world. It makes visitors wonder about their very existence on our planet like that of the giant ‘Galapagos' tortoises that gave the islands its name. Besides variety of birds and marine mammals such as sea lions, dolphins and whales are also found. The islands are also proud holders of distinctive plants like mangroves and endemic cacti. One must not forget to take a cruise through this enchanting Galapagos Islands.

Croatia (/kroʊˈeɪʃə/ kroh-AY-shə)

Croatia officially the Republic of Croatia is a unitary democratic parliamentary republic in Europe at the crossroads of Central Europe, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean. Its capital and largest city is Zagreb. The country is divided into 20 counties and the city of Zagreb. Croatia covers 56,594 square kilometers (21,851 square miles) and has diverse, mostly continental and Mediterranean climates. Croatia's Adriatic Sea coast contains more than a thousand islands. The country's population is 4.29 million, most of whom are Croats, with the most common religious denomination being Roman Catholicism.

 Plitvice Lakes National Park

Over time, water has flowed over the natural limestone and chalk, creating natural dams which in turn have created a series of connecting lakes, waterfalls, and caves. The nearby forests are home to bears, wolves and many rare bird species.

 

  Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian

The palace was built by the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the 4th century AD, and later served as the basis of the city of Split. A cathedral was built in the Middle Ages inside the ancient mausoleum, along with churches, fortifications, Gothic and Renaissance palaces. The Baroque style makes up the rest of the area.

Old City of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik became a prosperous Maritime Republic during the Middle Ages, it became the only eastern Adriatic city-state to rival Venice. Supported by its wealth and skilled diplomacy, the city achieved a remarkable level of development, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries.

 Stari Grad Plain

The Stari Grad Plain is an agricultural landscape that was set up by the ancient Greek colonists in the 4th century BC, and remains in use today. The plain is by and large still in its original form. The ancient layout has been preserved by careful maintenance of the stone walls over 2,400 years.

 Historic city of Trogir

Trogir's rich culture was created under the influence of old Greeks, Romans, and Venetians. It is the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complex not only in the Adriatic, but in all of Central Europe. Trogir's medieval core, surrounded by walls, comprises a preserved castle and tower and a series of dwellings and palaces from the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a country in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.

Costa Rica, which means "Rich Coast", constitutionally abolished its army permanently in 1949. It is the only Latin American country included in the list of the world's 22 older democracies. Costa Rica has consistently been among the top Latin American countries in the Human Development Index (HDI), ranked 69th in the world in 2011.Also was cited by the UNDP in 2010 as one of the countries that have attained much higher human development than other countries at the same income levels, and in 2011 was highlighted by UNDP for being a good performer on environmental sustainability, and better record on human development and inequality than the median of their region. It was also the only country to meet all five criteria established to measure environmental sustainability.The country is ranked fifth in the world, and first among the Americas, in terms of the 2012 Environmental Performance Index.

In 2007, the Costa Rican government announced plans for Costa Rica to become the first carbon-neutral country by 2021. According to the New Economics Foundation, Costa Rica ranks first in the Happy Planet Index and is the "greenest" country in the world.

  Corcovado National Park—One of the best placesin the world to trek in the tropical rainforest, Corcovado has everything visitors to Costa Rica are looking for. The rise of small lodges means access is becoming easier for those who don't want to slog through the sucking mud with a pack on their back, but the interior will always pay dividends to those who travel under their own power.

La Fortuna de Bagaces— Unlike its famous cousin to the east that it replaces on our list, there is essentially no tourist infrastructure in this sleepy hamlet between volcáns Miravalles and Rincón de la Vieja. There is easy access to beautiful swimming holes at the base of spectacular waterfalls, and incredible forests, the geysers and mud pots of Las Hornillas reminiscent of Yellowstone, abundant natural hotsprings, and a bull ring that still sees sabaneros meet their match in the corridas de toros.

 Barra Honda Caverns—Not everyone is interested in spelunking, but those who are will appreciate the pristine condition of these caves. The small vertical entrances have protected these limestone caverns for millennia, first from discovery, then from entry by all but the most intrepid explorers.

  Monteverde—This private reserve provides the easiest access to the cloud forests, and an infrastructure of guides and resources to help you make the most of your visit. Like Manuel Antonio, it has gained tremendously in popularity, but has much less chance of being loved to death. Monteverde is much larger, the cool, wet, windy weather means shorter visits, and as a private reserve it has better funding than most of the National Parks. Despite the growth in tourism in the surrounding community, a few hundred yards off the main loop (el triangulo) you're unlikely to see anyone else on the trail.

Cerro Chirripó—Quite possibly our favorite place. The strenuous climb through seven distinct ecosystems allows you to experience most of Costa Rica's inland natural history in a single day. There are a growing number of visitors, but nearly all of them stick to the main route to the refugio under the peak. If you want a true Costa Rican wilderness experience there's still thousands of virgin acres here.